Final answer:
The first step for a nurse caring for a client wishing to lose weight is to assess their current dietary and activity habits. This personalized approach, in alignment with the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, promotes sustainable weight loss and a lifetime of healthy eating habits. Avoiding fad diets, which can be unrealistic and unhealthy, is strongly advised.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's first action when caring for a client who wants to lose weight should be B) Assess the client's current dietary habits and activity level. This assessment is critical as it provides a baseline from which to make informed decisions regarding dietary changes and physical activity. Instead of recommending a strict calorie-restricted diet or suggesting immediate initiation of a vigorous exercise routine, which may not be appropriate for all individuals, a thorough assessment allows for personalized advice that can support sustainable weight loss. Fad diets should generally be avoided, as they often make unrealistic claims and do not promote a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
To help a friend considering a weight loss program or provide advice on choosing one for oneself, evaluating the evidence-based recommendations is essential. One should look for programs that include nutritional education, regular physical activity, behavior modification, and possibly self-monitoring. These components have been shown to lead to sustainable weight loss and a reduced risk for health issues associated with obesity.
These weight loss strategies should be applied within the context of the 2015 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, which emphasizes a balance of calorie intake with physical activity and recommends a diversity of nutritious foods.